A new FTC report called a “Look Behind the Screens” reveals what it calls “simply staggering” surveillance practices by major tech companies. The study examined nine leading social media and video streaming services: Amazon’s Twitch, Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, Reddit, and WhatsApp.
Companies collect extensive personal data, far more than most people think possible, including browsing history, location, and even religious beliefs Their collection is often hidden with many use hidden pixels to track users across other websites.
Some shocking findings:
- Some firms couldn’t identify all collected data points or third-party data sharing
- Algorithms and AI are widely applied to user information with little oversight
The FTC strongly criticizes these practices, stating, “predicting, shaping, and monetizing human behavior through commercial surveillance is extremely profitable.”
The report highlights inadequate protections for children and teens, noting that many aren’t covered by existing regulations like COPPA.
FTC Chair Lina Khan emphasizes the urgency, saying, “our privacy cannot be the price we pay to accomplish ordinary basic daily activities.”
